Christmas is the time when I like to serve small, elegant bites that look special but don’t take hours to make. These Easy Salmon Cornets are one of my favorites. They are crunchy, fresh, and feel very festive without being heavy. Every time I serve them, they disappear fast.
What I really like about this recipe is how simple it is. You don’t need to cook anything, and everything can be prepared quickly. It’s perfect when you want something impressive but stress-free.
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Why I Love This Recipe
I love recipes that look fancy but are actually easy. These Easy Salmon Cornets are exactly that. The basil-flavored cone already adds a lot of taste, so the filling doesn’t need much seasoning. The creamy herb cheese, salty smoked salmon, fresh dill, and little lemon pearls balance each other perfectly.
They also work well as an amuse-bouche. One cone is enough to wake up the appetite without filling people up before dinner. And because they’re small, they help with portion control, which I really appreciate during the holidays.
A Few Simple Health Benefits
Even though this is a festive treat, it also has some real health benefits.
Smoked salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids. These healthy fats are well known for supporting heart health and helping reduce inflammation in the body. Salmon is also a good source of high-quality protein, which helps keep you feeling satisfied.
Cream cheese adds richness and provides calcium, which is important for strong bones and teeth. Using a small amount keeps the calories reasonable while still giving a creamy texture.
Fresh herbs like dill contain natural antioxidants. Antioxidants help protect the body’s cells from damage. Herbs also add a lot of flavor without extra salt or fat.
Lemon pearls or lemon zest add a fresh taste and a small boost of vitamin C. Vitamin C supports the immune system, which is especially helpful during the winter months.
Because each serving is small, you get flavor and enjoyment without overeating. I really like that balance, especially during Christmas.
When I Serve These Cones
I usually serve these Easy Salmon Cornets with a glass of sparkling wine or prosecco. They also pair well with a light white wine. I place them on a platter right before guests arrive so they stay crunchy.
If I’m hosting a bigger group, I plan on two cones per person. For a sit-down dinner, one cone per guest is perfect as a starter bite.
Final Thoughts
These Easy Salmon Cornets are one of my go-to Christmas appetizers. They’re quick to make, beautiful to serve, and full of fresh flavors. Best of all, they feel indulgent while still offering some real nutritional benefits. For me, that’s exactly what holiday food should be.
Easy Salmon Cornets
12
servings15
minutes0
minutes300
kcalFill mini basil cones with homemade herb cream cheese using a piping bag.
Top with folded smoked salmon, fresh dill, and a few lemon pearls.
Serve immediately as an elegant and crunchy Christmas amuse.
Ingredients
12 Mini basil-flavoured cones
150 g cream cheese
100 g smoked salmon
1 tbsp fresh dill
1 tsp lemon zest
Freshly ground black pepper
Lemon pearls (transparent citrus pearls)
Directions
- In a bowl, mix the cream cheese with the finely chopped dill, black pepper and lemon zest.
Stir until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. - Spoon the herb cream cheese into a piping bag fitted with a small nozzle.
- Carefully pipe the cream cheese into each mini basil cone, filling them almost to the top.
- Roll or fold small pieces of smoked salmon and place them neatly on top of the cream cheese.
- Finish each cone with a small sprig of fresh dill and a few lemon pearls for a fresh, elegant touch
Equipment
- Piping bag with a small round nozzle (or a ziplock bag with the corner cut off)
Notes
- Tag us on Instagram @cherrieswithlove when you make this delectable recipe to share the love and inspire others!
Tips
- Serve immediately for maximum crunch, or keep chilled for up to 1 hour and garnish just before serving.
Nutrition Facts
12 servings per container
Serving Size1 servings
- Amount Per ServingCalories70
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat
4g
7%
- Saturated Fat 3g 15%
- Trans Fat 0g
- Sodium 150mg 7%
- Total Carbohydrate
6g
2%
- Dietary Fiber 0.2g 0%
- Sugars 0g
- Protein 3g 6%
* The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
Easy Salmon Cornets
Frequently Asked Questions
What herbs work best in the cream cheese?
Dill is ideal, but chives, parsley, or a mix of fresh herbs work very well.
How long do they stay crunchy after filling?
They stay crunchy for about 30–60 minutes, depending on the moisture of the filling.
Can I make them lighter or lower in calories?
Yes, use light cream cheese and a smaller amount of salmon to reduce calories and fat.
As a nutritionist, it’s important to note that while I strive to provide valuable insights, I may not be familiar with all individual health conditions or circumstances. Therefore, it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice tailored to your specific needs. Thank you for your understanding.
